Schools close in Madurai because of heavy rain

Madurai, Tamil Nadu: Schools and most colleges in Madurai, Ramanathapuram and Sivaganga districts in Tamil Nadu will remain closed today - a precaution against heavy rain expected in the area today.

Heavy rains lashed several parts of Ramanathapuram district causing extensive damage to crops and inundating several housing colonies. Low lying Colonies in Ramanathapuram were also flooded, officials said.

Eighty eight people have died in rain related incidents across Tamil Nadu and government has announced Rs 2 Lakh compensation for families of each victim. Relief package to farmers will be sent after Collectors estimate crop damage.

The sea under the Pamban bridge in Ramanathapuram was almost touching the bridge splashing water on the railway track.